Retired Kakamega Bishop Philip Sulumeti Dies at 88

Retired Kakamega Diocese Bishop Emeritus Philip Sulumeti has died at the age of 88.

He died at Nairobi Hospital on Sunday night, according to a statement by incumbent Kakamega Bishop Joseph Obanyi.

“This morning, it is with sadness that I communicate the passing of our beloved Bishop Emeritus Rt. Rev. Philip Sulumeti at Nairobi Hospital last night at 11 pm,” Bishop Obanyi said.

He extended condolences to Sulumeti’s family, friends, and the people of Kakamega Diocese.

“I request that you keep him in your prayers and remember him in the masses as we begin making arrangements for his burial, which will be communicated in due course. May the soul of our servant Philip Sulumeti rest in peace,” he added.

Born on August 15, 1937, in Kotur village, Teso South, Busia County, Sulumeti was ordained a priest in Kisumu on January 6, 1966.

He was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Kisumu in 1972 and became Titular Bishop of Urci at age 35 - a title linked to a diocese that no longer functions.

He was ordained bishop on August 20, 1972, appointed Bishop of Kisumu on December 9, 1976, and became Bishop of Kakamega on February 28, 1978.